May
01.05.2025
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Thursday
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Day Mineral Agreement Ratified While Zelensky Sanctions Former Adviser

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The Ukraine-US minerals agreement dominated coverage, with the Cabinet publishing the full text showing Ukraine retains ownership while granting the US influence over who purchases resources. The deal covers 57 minerals and includes military aid provisions. Zelensky called it "truly equal" as it moved to parliament for ratification.

Trump approved the first direct commercial weapons sale to Ukraine worth $50 million and dispatched mothballed F-16 fighters, partially lifting his military aid freeze. His national security adviser Waltz resigned and will become UN ambassador.

Zelensky imposed sanctions against former adviser Arestovych, explaining the decision during afternoon statements. Russian drone strikes hit Odesa overnight and later targeted Zaporizhzhia with at least 10 strikes, killing one person and wounding 14. Senator Graham pushed "bone-crushing" sanctions legislation with a 500% tariff on Russian oil buyers if Putin rejects peace talks.
02.05.2025
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Friday
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Day Drone Attacks Wounded Dozens As Minerals Deal Faced Scrutiny

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Russian drone attacks on Ukrainian cities intensified, with casualties in Zaporizhzhia rising from 14 to 29 by morning, and a separate evening attack on Kharkiv injuring 47 civilians. Military developments included reports of explosions at the Kacha airfield in occupied Crimea and Ukrainian drones targeting a Russian space intelligence facility in Stavropol.

The recently signed US-Ukraine minerals agreement continued generating discussion, with Prime Minister Shmyhal pushing parliament to ratify it by May 8, while reports suggested profits might take decades to materialize. The Washington Post indicated the deal had unsettled Russian elites.

Security services detained the son of former Motor Sich president Boguslaev in Monaco on money laundering suspicions involving $650 million. President Zelensky held meetings focused on Ukraine's F-16 fleet and accelerating ballistic missile development, emphasizing continuing operations in Russia's Kursk and Belgorod regions despite diplomatic rhetoric.
03.05.2025
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Saturday
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Day Two Fighter Jets Fell As Zelensky Rejected Putin's Ceasefire

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Russian thermobaric drone attacks on Kharkiv intensified overnight, with casualties rising to over 50. Ukrainian military reported 216 combat clashes along the frontline, with Pokrovsk and Novopavlivka sectors experiencing the heaviest fighting.

Morning headlines revealed Zelensky's rejection of Putin's proposed three-day May 9 ceasefire. In a diplomatic development, Trump approved an F-16 maintenance deal for Ukraine while Ukrainian soldiers were announced to participate in Britain's Victory Day parade.

By midday, Ukrainian forces achieved a significant milestone by destroying a Russian Su-30 fighter jet using a Magura marine drone for the first time. Evening brought a second Russian aircraft destruction in occupied Crimea, as confirmed by Zelensky.

Russian drone attacks resumed against Kyiv by night, causing fires and injuries. Throughout the day, Zelensky expressed concerns about being left alone in negotiations with Russia after a potential ceasefire, continuing themes from previous days regarding international support.
04.05.2025
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Sunday
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Day Naval Drones Changed Aerial Warfare

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Russian drone attacks on Kyiv overnight injured 11 civilians and damaged buildings across three districts, continuing the pattern of aerial assaults seen in previous days. Ukrainian forces achieved a historic military breakthrough with naval drones successfully destroying two Russian Su-30 fighter jets, marking the world's first naval drone strike against aircraft. Intelligence chief Budanov confirmed the Magura drone was modified to carry US-supplied missiles, with the crew not surviving.

President Zelensky arrived in the Czech Republic, announcing plans for a Ukrainian-Czech F-16 training school and expecting 1.8 million additional artillery shells through Czech procurement initiatives. He firmly rejected Russia's proposed May 9 ceasefire, calling it "cynicism of the highest level" while warning of potential Russian provocations on Victory Day. US media reported Ukraine would receive a modernized Patriot air defense system previously stationed in Israel, reflecting continued Western support.
05.05.2025
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Monday
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Day Naval Drones Changed Air War Rules

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Morning reports confirmed Ukraine's historic achievement of using naval drones to shoot down two Russian Su-30 fighter jets within 24 hours - the world's first USV aerial kills. Commander Syrskyi declared the nine-month Kursk operation had achieved most objectives, creating a buffer zone.

EU officials threatened to double military aid if Putin refuses peace, positioning this as leverage for Trump's negotiation efforts. Julie Davis, the new U.S. chargé d'affaires, arrived in Kyiv amid reports of a potential Israeli Patriot system transfer to Ukraine pending U.S. approval.

Zelensky announced plans for a Ukrainian-Czech F-16 training school during his Prague visit while dismissing Putin's proposed three-day May ceasefire. Trump expressed optimism about negotiations and mentioned wanting Erdogan's involvement, while evaluating falling oil prices as helpful for ending the war.

Drone warfare continued with Ukrainian forces striking a Russian drone control center in Kursk region, while Russian drone attacks killed several in Sumy border towns and one civilian in Odesa region.
06.05.2025
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Tuesday
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Day Russian Drones Strike Markets As POWs Return Home

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Russian "Shahed" drones struck Kharkiv overnight, hitting the Barabashovo market with 20 recorded impacts and injuring four people. This attack followed the naval drone innovations reported in previous days.

In diplomatic developments, Macron and Starmer called for a 30-day ceasefire, contrasting with Putin's rejected three-day "parade truce." Friedrich Merz was elected German Chancellor on his second attempt, after initially failing to secure enough votes.

A significant prisoner exchange saw 205 Ukrainian defenders return from Russian captivity, many from Mariupol's defense. Reuters revealed that Pentagon chief Hagseth had allegedly halted U.S. military aid to Ukraine without Trump's knowledge.

By afternoon, Russian ballistic missiles struck Sumy, killing two children and a man, with 11 wounded. Days of mourning were declared as evening brought more drone attacks on Zaporizhzhia, injuring three. Air raid alerts sounded in Kyiv by night.
07.05.2025
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Wednesday
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Day Deadly Missile Barrage Preceded Putin's Victory Day Truce

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Russia launched a massive overnight attack on Kyiv with ballistic missiles and drones, killing two people, including children, just hours before Putin's announced "Victory Day truce" was to take effect. The assault involved 5 ballistic missiles and over 180 drones, with Ukrainian forces intercepting 2 missiles and 81 drones.

Ukrainian counterattacks continued with SBU drones striking two key Russian defense factories - Bazalt and Splav - while also disrupting Russian civilian aviation, causing hundreds of grounded flights. These strikes follow Ukraine's historic naval drone attacks that downed Russian fighter jets in previous days.

In diplomatic developments, JD Vance acknowledged Russia's demands in negotiations as "too high" while Biden criticized Trump's approach to ending the war. Germany delivered a new military aid package as the Vatican conclave began but ended its first day without selecting a new pope.
08.05.2025
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Thursday
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Day Putin's Truce Shattered As New Pope Elected

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Russia's announced three-day "Victory Day" ceasefire proved meaningless, with Ukrainian defense forces reporting over 100 Russian attacks across the frontline. Despite the supposed truce, Russia dropped approximately 100 aerial bombs on Sumy region alone. Ukrainian forces liberated a forest area near Lyptsi in Kharkiv region, reclaiming over 200 hectares of territory.

The Rada ratified a minerals agreement with the United States with overwhelming support (338 votes), leading to Trump announcing a call with Zelensky. The EU transferred €1 billion from frozen Russian assets to Ukraine.

By evening, white smoke above the Sistine Chapel signaled the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV - the first American pontiff. Shortly after, Zelensky and Trump held their phone conversation, with Zelensky reporting that Trump confirmed his desire to end the war and called for a 30-day ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia.
09.05.2025
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Friday
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Day of Hungarian Espionage and European Solidarity

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The SBU uncovered a Hungarian military intelligence spy network in Zakarpattia region, triggering a diplomatic crisis. By afternoon, both countries had expelled each other's diplomats, with Szijjártó claiming Ukraine employed spies at its embassy in Budapest.

A high-level EU delegation arrived in Lviv for Europe Day, approving €1.9 billion in military support including €1 billion from frozen Russian assets. Ministers greenlit the creation of a tribunal to try Russian leaders for war crimes, despite Hungary's reported obstruction of Ukraine's EU path.

Trump and European leaders reportedly agreed on proposing a 30-day ceasefire, with Reuters suggesting they prepared an "ultimatum" for Putin. Putin's Victory Day parade proceeded in Moscow, but Russia continued bombing Sumy region despite supposed celebrations.

The US Embassy warned of possible "significant air attacks" in coming days, putting Ukrainians on alert following the recent aerial bombardments that preceded Putin's "Victory Day truce."
10.05.2025
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Saturday
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Day European Leaders Propelled Ceasefire Initiative From Kyiv

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The leaders of France, Germany, UK, and Poland arrived in Kyiv for an unprecedented joint visit, advancing from Trump's previous day's call for ending the "senseless war." Together with Zelensky, they honored fallen Ukrainian soldiers before proposing an unconditional 30-day ceasefire starting May 12. They collectively spoke with Trump, who committed to monitoring the ceasefire initiative.

By afternoon, Zelensky confirmed Ukraine's readiness for direct talks with Russia "in any format," rejecting demilitarized zone proposals as "dead." Axios reported Ukraine had agreed to direct negotiations with Russia, while Vitkoff was reportedly preparing to present Putin with a 22-point proposal.

Late evening, Putin responded by proposing direct talks with Ukraine. Meanwhile, the US approved the transfer of Patriot missiles and German artillery rockets to Ukraine, maintaining pressure while diplomatic channels opened. Six National Guard officials were suspended amid NABU investigations.
11.05.2025
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Sunday
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Day Zelensky and Putin Edged Toward Istanbul Meeting

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The diplomatic dance intensified following yesterday's European peace initiative. Early morning, Putin proposed direct negotiations in Istanbul starting May 15, notably omitting mention of a ceasefire. Zelensky responded that Ukraine was ready for talks, but insisted on the May 12 ceasefire as a precondition. Trump intervened by afternoon, urging Ukraine to accept negotiations immediately.

The pressure yielded results by evening when Zelensky dramatically announced he would "personally wait for Putin in Turkey on Thursday," marking a significant shift toward direct leader-level talks. Erdogan confirmed Turkey's readiness to host negotiations after speaking with both Putin and Macron.

Military actions continued despite diplomatic overtures. Russia launched 108 drones overnight, with Ukrainian forces shooting down 60. The Pokrovsk front remained the hottest sector with over half of the day's 67 reported clashes occurring there.
12.05.2025
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Monday
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Day of Kremlin Silence as Istanbul Meeting Approaches

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Diplomatic pressure intensified as Germany set an end-of-day deadline for Putin to accept a 30-day ceasefire. China voiced support for the proposal, while EU foreign ministers met in London to coordinate Ukraine support and new sanctions. Despite Putin's previous announcements, reports indicated fighting never paused along the front line, with 133 clashes recorded by day's end.

By afternoon, Trump declared Thursday's Russia-Ukraine meeting "very important" and considered attending personally—a move Zelensky called "the right idea." Zelensky later discussed meeting details with Erdogan, while noting Moscow's continued silence regarding the Istanbul talks.

On the ground, Russian drones struck an energy company vehicle in Sumy region, killing one worker and wounding three others. Combat remained heaviest in the Pokrovsk sector, where Ukrainian forces repelled 50 Russian assaults amid continued fighting despite diplomatic initiatives.
13.05.2025
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Tuesday
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Day of Rubio's Istanbul Mission Amid Putin's Absence

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Russian forces advanced in Toretsk and the Pokrovsk direction with 166 combat clashes across the frontline, demonstrating Russia's rejection of the 30-day ceasefire proposal. Morning reports detailed Trump's insistence on direct Russia-Ukraine talks, with his administration planning to send representatives Witkoff and Kellogg to Istanbul.

By midday, Zelensky declared Putin's absence would be "final proof" of unwillingness to end the war, while promising to "do everything" to ensure the meeting happens. The diplomatic momentum accelerated when US Secretary of State Rubio announced his participation in Thursday's talks.

Evening reports confirmed Russia would send a delegation to Istanbul, but without Putin himself. Meanwhile, Macron stated sanctions would come "in the coming days without a ceasefire," walking back from the May 13 deadline previously established. Ukraine's Eurovision semi-final qualification offered a rare positive note amid the diplomatic maneuvering.
14.05.2025
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Wednesday
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Day Russia Sends Medinsky Not Putin to Istanbul

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Russian strikes on Sumy industrial facilities killed workers as diplomatic posturing intensified ahead of Istanbul peace talks. Morning brought President Zelensky's ultimatum that he would only meet Putin directly, setting ceasefire as a precondition while expressing cautious optimism about Putin's attendance.

By afternoon, Trump announced he expected "good news" on war's end soon, while Rutte described a two-week "window of opportunity" for resolution. US officials Rubio and Witkoff confirmed they would attend Friday's meeting, maintaining American presence despite Trump's absence.

Evening developments upended expectations when Russia announced its delegation would be led by Medinsky rather than Putin himself, alongside the GRU head. Zelensky, who had appointed a new ambassador to Turkey earlier in the day, stated he would wait to see Russia's representatives before determining Ukraine's next steps, while polling showed 71% of Ukrainians oppose elections even during a ceasefire.
15.05.2025
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Thursday
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Day Ukrainian Delegation Goes Without Zelensky

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Peace talks in Istanbul lacked principal leaders from the outset. Morning reports showed Russia launching 110 drones before talks began, with Zelensky arriving in Ankara for preparatory meetings with Erdogan. Upon arrival, Zelensky immediately criticized Russia's "theatrical" delegation level.

By midday, Zelensky announced Defense Minister Umerov would lead Ukraine's delegation, confirming he would not attend since Putin chose not to appear. This development reflected deteriorating expectations, with US Secretary Rubio expressing "no high expectations" and suggesting a Trump-Putin meeting would be necessary for any breakthrough.

Military operations continued regardless, with 168 combat engagements reported along the frontline and Russian forces capturing another settlement in Donetsk region. By evening, Ukraine finalized its 12-member delegation as talks were scheduled to begin Friday, even as most observers now viewed the process with diminished optimism.
16.05.2025
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Friday
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Day Russia Demands Five Oblasts for Prisoner Exchange

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The first direct Russia-Ukraine talks in years commenced in Istanbul, with Ukraine losing an F-16 fighter jet overnight (though the pilot safely ejected after downing three Russian targets). Morning negotiations began with "grim" US representatives joining Ukrainian and Turkish delegations before Russia's representatives arrived. By early afternoon, news emerged that Russia had presented "unrealistic" and "unacceptable" demands, reportedly including Ukraine ceding five oblasts. Despite this impasse, Defense Minister Umerov announced a significant breakthrough – an agreement on a "1,000 for 1,000" prisoner exchange. Following the talks, Zelensky and European leaders including Macron, Merz, Starmer and Tusk collectively called Trump.

Ukrainian officials maintained Russia's territorial demands were non-starters, with Umerov suggesting a Zelensky-Putin meeting should be the next step in negotiations. Evening analysis characterized the day as achieving only the prisoner exchange while failing to approach a ceasefire agreement.
17.05.2025
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Saturday
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Day Russia Kills Nine on Evacuation Bus

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A Russian Lancet drone struck an evacuation bus in Sumy region, killing nine civilians and wounding seven - a family among the victims. Zelensky and other officials called for increased international pressure and sanctions against Russia in response.

Following Istanbul talks, Trump announced he would call both Putin and Zelensky on Monday to discuss a potential May 19 ceasefire. Reports indicate Senator Rubio delivered a "decisive message" from Trump to Lavrov, with Trump threatening "crushing sanctions" should Russia undermine negotiations.

Military intelligence chief Budanov stated a massive "1000 for 1000" prisoner exchange could happen next week, with SSU already beginning preparations. This represents the one concrete outcome from the Istanbul talks, where Russia had previously demanded territorial concessions for such an exchange.

The Kremlin indicated a possible Zelensky-Putin meeting, while Ukrainian forces reported destroying over 1,000 Russian tanks and 2,500 armored vehicles this year.
18.05.2025
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Sunday
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Day of Papal Enthronement and Record Drone Strike

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Russia launched a record 273 drones against Kyiv overnight, killing one woman and injuring three, including a child. Defense forces intercepted 88 drones while 128 were lost to tracking.

Pope Leo XIV was officially enthroned at the Vatican, with Zelensky attending alongside US officials. The Ukrainian president later held meetings with Vice President Vance and Senator Rubio, describing the conversations as "good" while discussing Russia's "unrealistic conditions" at the Istanbul talks. Zelensky also sent Trump a letter with new cooperation proposals ahead of Monday's scheduled call.

Ukraine's intelligence warned of Russia planning an "instructional-combat" launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile overnight. Military reports indicated 130-167 combat clashes along the frontline.

International politics showed pro-EU candidates leading in both Romanian and Polish elections, despite pro-Russian claims to the contrary in Romania.
19.05.2025
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Monday
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Day of Pivotal Trump-Putin Call

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The much-anticipated phone call between Trump and Putin dominated coverage, with Trump unexpectedly calling Zelensky beforehand. Following the two-hour conversation with Putin, Trump announced Russia and Ukraine would "immediately" begin negotiations toward ending the war, describing the call as "very well" and stating "let the process begin."

Putin claimed Russia was ready to work on a "ceasefire memorandum" while maintaining his conviction that Russia could capture four Ukrainian oblasts by year's end. Zelensky later confirmed the possibility of a ceasefire memorandum but emphasized "no one will withdraw our troops from our territories."

Earlier, European Commission President von der Leyen called this week "decisive" for ending Russia's war. The SBU reported destroying Russian radar systems and supply depots on Black Sea gas platforms using coordinated maritime and aerial drones. News also emerged of Russia's failed intercontinental "Yars" missile launch and Finland's decision to supply Ukraine with weapons using frozen Russian assets.
20.05.2025
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Tuesday
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Day of Trump's Red Lines and Putin's Stalling Tactics

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Following yesterday's Trump-Putin call, contradictory narratives emerged regarding peace negotiations. While Trump claimed Russia and Ukraine would "immediately begin talks," the Kremlin stated "no deadlines" existed for negotiations. Trump admitted having an undisclosed "red line" and threatened to "step back" if progress stalled, while remarking "it's not easy dealing with Zelensky."

Zelensky countered that Russia was "trying to buy time to continue the war" and emphasized American involvement remains critical because "Russia fears the US." Meanwhile, the EU approved its 17th sanctions package targeting Russia's shadow fleet, with the UK simultaneously sanctioning St. Petersburg's currency exchange.

Military developments continued with 177 combat clashes reported in the morning, decreasing to 129 by evening. The Pokrovsk sector remained the hottest spot with Russia reportedly advancing on Konstantinovka. Military leadership ordered an investigation into corruption allegations in the 155th "French" Brigade.
21.05.2025
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Wednesday
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Day of Portnov's Assassination and Trump's Hesitance

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The assassination of Andriy Portnov, former deputy head of Yanukovych's administration, dominated coverage. Portnov was shot in Madrid by what sources described as "professional" gunmen, with multiple outlets publishing photos and videos of the scene.

Following yesterday's Trump-Putin call, Trump continued to resist imposing sanctions on Russia, stating it would be "my determination – nobody else's" and reportedly opposing inclusion of Ukraine support promises in G7 statements. The Washington Post suggested the Trump-Putin conversation indicated no war end in sight.

The EU announced the rolling back of Ukraine trade support, returning to pre-war tariffs and quotas with potential €3.5 billion export losses.

Military developments included a Russian missile strike on a Sumy training range killing six soldiers and wounding over ten, while Ukraine reportedly struck Russia's Bolkhov Semiconductor Plant. The General Staff denied Russian claims about the end of combat operations in Kursk region.
22.05.2025
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Thursday
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Day Putin Proposes Buffer Zone While Trump's Position Evolves

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Trump's stance on the conflict showed notable evolution, with reports claiming he acknowledged to European officials that Putin doesn't want to end the war because he believes Russia is winning. This marks a shift from his earlier optimistic tone following the Putin call. Polish PM Tusk later contradicted these reports.

Putin announced plans to create a "buffer zone" on the Ukraine border, which Ukraine's Foreign Ministry firmly rejected, suggesting it could only exist within Russian territory.

Preparations for a "1000 for 1000" prisoner exchange advanced, with Zelensky conducting meetings on the details and Yermak stating Ukraine had completed its part of the preparations.

Military leadership changes in Russia saw Gen. Andrey Mordvichev, commander of the Mariupol siege, taking over ground forces. Ukraine proposed that EU countries direct part of their GDP to support Ukrainian forces, while continuing to push for stronger sanctions against Russia.
23.05.2025
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Friday
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Day of First Phase Prisoner Exchange

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The first phase of the long-negotiated "1000 for 1000" prisoner exchange was implemented, with Ukraine recovering 390 prisoners from Russia. This follows days of preparation after the Istanbul talks and Trump's premature announcement that the exchange had been completed while it was still underway. The G7 declared Russian assets would remain frozen until Russia ends its aggression and compensates Ukraine.

Putin's announced "buffer zone" plan alarmed Ukraine, with details emerging of a proposed 15-20 kilometer zone in two oblasts. Military activity continued with Ukraine confirming strikes on a Russian factory producing components for Iskander missiles, while Russia launched ballistic missile strikes on Odesa port, killing one person and wounding eight.

The day ended with Russian drone and ballistic missile attacks on Kyiv, with debris reportedly hitting residential buildings. Senator Graham urged stronger action against Putin while Trump reportedly opposes new sanctions.
24.05.2025
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Saturday
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Day of Massive Kyiv Airstrike and Second Phase Prisoner Exchange

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Russia launched one of the war's heaviest airstrikes on Kyiv overnight, combining ballistic missiles and Shahed drones that damaged residential buildings and injured at least eight people. Ukrainian air defenses shot down six Iskander missiles and neutralized 245 enemy drones. President Zelensky reported the attack affected Kyiv and seven other regions.

In a major diplomatic development, Ukraine completed the second phase of the "1000 for 1000" prisoner exchange with Russia, bringing home 307 defenders, including 27 Mariupol defenders. This follows yesterday's return of 390 Ukrainians, bringing the total to 697 over two days. Zelensky soon announced a third phase of exchanges.

Reports emerged that Russia has changed its offensive tactics in southern Ukraine, while intelligence sources told BILD that Putin believes he can win and is preparing a new offensive against three Ukrainian regions. DeepState confirmed Russian forces had established positions in Sumy region.
25.05.2025
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Sunday
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Day of Deadly Air Barrage and Final Prisoner Exchange

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Russia launched one of its deadliest air assaults on Ukraine overnight, killing 12 people including three children and wounding over 60. The attack involved nearly 300 drones and 70 missiles striking 22 locations across Ukraine. By morning, casualties and damage reports escalated, with Kyiv region alone reporting 23 injured and four killed.

The third and final phase of the "1000 for 1000" prisoner exchange was completed, with 303 more Ukrainians returning home, bringing the total to 1,000. However, Azov regiment commander "Redis" expressed outrage that no Azov fighters were included in the exchange.

Netherlands announced the delivery of its final promised F-16 fighter jet to Ukraine for May 26. Intelligence reports revealed China is supplying Russia with critical components for military production, with Chinese-made electronics comprising 80% of Russian drone components. The Economist warned Russia may be preparing to launch simultaneous attacks with over 1,000 drones.
26.05.2025
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Monday
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Day Western Powers Lifted Long-Range Strike Restrictions

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Russia launched its third consecutive night of massive attacks, with Ukrainian forces neutralizing a record 288 drones and 9 cruise missiles. Trump sharply criticized Putin, calling him "completely crazy" while US lawmakers prepared sanctions even without Trump's approval.

The major development came midday when German Chancellor Merz announced that the US, UK, France, and Germany had lifted restrictions on using Western long-range weapons to strike targets inside Russia. The Kremlin reportedly "panicked" following this announcement. The Netherlands confirmed delivery of its final batch of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine.

Intelligence reports painted a concerning picture, with Ukraine's Foreign Intelligence Chief warning Russia could be technically ready for new aggression against Europe within 2-4 years after the current war ends. Zelensky stated intelligence shows Russia has no plans to end the war and is preparing new offensive operations. Russian forces now control four settlements in Sumy region.
27.05.2025
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Tuesday
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Day Geneva Peace Talks Proposal Emerged as Trump Threatens Putin

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Reports early morning indicated Trump might implement new sanctions against Russia while considering lifting Biden-era restrictions on Ukraine's military capabilities. German Chancellor Merz clarified that some long-range strike restrictions were actually lifted months ago.

By midday, Trump advisor Keith Kellogg revealed that the US had received Ukraine's peace conditions and was awaiting Russia's response, suggesting Geneva as a potential venue for trilateral talks between Putin, Zelensky, and Trump. Turkey also offered to host negotiations.

Trump's rhetoric toward Putin escalated dramatically by evening, threatening "really bad things" and accusing him of "playing with fire" following three consecutive nights of massive Russian aerial attacks. The State Department downplayed interpretations of Trump's statements as indicating disappointment with Russia.

Heavy fighting continued along the frontline with 170 clashes reported throughout the day, most intense in the Pokrovsk sector.
28.05.2025
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Wednesday
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Day Diplomacy Accelerated Toward Istanbul

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Peace negotiations gained momentum following yesterday's Geneva proposal. Ukrainian Defense Minister Umerov confirmed delivering Ukraine's ceasefire position document to Russia while awaiting Moscow's memorandum in return. Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov announced the second round of Istanbul talks would begin June 2, though Kyiv has not confirmed attendance.

Zelensky's Berlin meeting with German politician Merz produced concrete results. Germany committed €5 billion in military aid and agreed to finance production of Ukrainian long-range weapons with no strike restrictions. Reports suggest Ukraine may receive TAURUS missiles, called "bridge killers." This follows yesterday's announcement that Western powers had lifted long-range strike restrictions.

The drone war escalated further. Ukrainian forces conducted a record 296-drone attack on Russia, hitting the Raduga cruise missile factory near Moscow. Zelensky warned Ukrainians to prepare for potential 1,000 Shahed attacks daily as Russia intensifies its campaign. Trump declared readiness for trilateral meetings with Putin and Zelensky if necessary, stating he would know within two weeks whether Putin wants to end the war.
29.05.2025
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Thursday
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Day Russia Withholds Peace Memorandum

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Morning reports confirmed over half of Azovstal defenders had returned from Russian captivity, marking progress in prisoner exchanges initiated earlier this week. A Russian deputy mayor involved in Mariupol airstrikes died in a grenade explosion in Stavropol, with Ukrainian outlets highlighting his role in guiding missiles to the city.

The diplomatic momentum from yesterday's Istanbul announcement stalled as Zelensky revealed throughout the day that Russia had failed to transmit its promised memorandum with ceasefire proposals to Ukraine or international partners. He characterized this as another Russian deception, stating "words do not work with Moscow."

Germany's Merz indicated Taurus missile deliveries remained possible "within limits," though Zelensky noted they had agreed not to discuss certain military topics publicly. Ukraine secured a $500 million IMF tranche while Zelensky accused China of blocking drone supplies to Ukraine while continuing deliveries to Russia. Fighting continued with 119 clashes reported, concentrated in the Pokrovsk sector.
30.05.2025
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Friday
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Day Trump Envoy Legitimizes Russian NATO Fears

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The diplomatic stalemate over Russia's missing memorandum, which began yesterday, deepened as Zelensky met Turkish Foreign Minister Fidan to confirm neither Ukraine nor Turkey had received any Russian documents for negotiations. The New York Times revealed Ukraine's own ceasefire demands while Russia finally presented its conditions late in the day.

Trump envoy Kellogg shifted American positioning significantly, calling Russian concerns about NATO expansion "fair" and indicating willingness to discuss halting eastward expansion. This marked a departure from traditional US NATO policy.

Ukrainian intelligence conducted a special operation in Vladivostok, striking Russian personnel and equipment on the Far East coast. Zelensky met US senators promoting new sanctions legislation while continuing to criticize Russia as "the most inadequate subject in the world" for withholding negotiation documents. Fighting continued with 149 clashes reported by evening, maintaining the pattern of concentrated activity in the Pokrovsk sector.
31.05.2025
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Saturday
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Day Zelensky Questions Istanbul Talks

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The diplomatic momentum from previous days stalled as Zelensky expressed skepticism about upcoming Istanbul negotiations, stating Ukraine and the world lacked clear information about Russia's intentions. This continued the pattern from May 29-30 when Russia failed to deliver its promised memorandum.

Military reports dominated morning coverage, with Russian forces occupying 18 settlements across three regions within a week according to German media. Ukraine countered by striking 58 targets in Russian territory during May. Forced evacuations began from 11 settlements in Sumy region as Russian attacks intensified, killing hundreds of animals and destroying grain stores.

European preparations for long-term Ukrainian defense accelerated amid potential changes in US policy, with reports suggesting the "coalition of the willing" was adapting support plans without American participation. Meanwhile, Trump's envoy Kellogg warned against trusting Putin before consulting Europe, while speculation grew about possible new US sanctions based on Trump's reported displeasure with Putin.
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